On 18 April 2026, Fiji authorities confirmed that Jone Vakarisi died in military custody at the Queen Elizabeth Barracks on 17 April. He was taken into custody on 16 April with three other people, two of whom have since been released. Republic of the Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) initially stated that Jone Vakarisi “voluntarily presented” himself at their barracks and died of a “medical emergency” related to a pre-existing condition. The RFMF described the death as a ‘national security’ incident and cautioned people against discussing it. On 20 April, the RFMF acknowledged that its initial communication was not factually correct, stating that it had acknowledged the findings of the autopsy. Amnesty International’s Pacific Researcher Kate Schuetze said the information provided by authorities raises more questions than answers, noting that copies of the police autopsy report circulating online suggest serious assault. She emphasized that any death in custody must be met with an independent, impartial, effective and prompt investigation, with results made public. Schuetze added that statements of regret by the Commander of Fiji’s military are meaningless unless followed by comprehensive and transparent explanations and, where sufficient admissible evidence exists, appropriate criminal charges against those responsible. She also noted that the death raises questions about the culture of impunity within Fiji’s military forces and the role of the military in policing matters, including its ability to meet the needs of detainees in line with international human rights law and standards. Schuetze further stated that the military’s cautioning against people discussing the incident raises serious freedom of expression concerns, and that questions and reporting about this case cannot be suppressed for reasons of ‘national security’. Under international standards, any death in custody creates an assumption of the state’s responsibility and a violation of the right to life by state authorities, which can only be overcome through a proper investigation establishing compliance with human rights obligations.
